No Cost Tips
Low Cost Tips
Investment Tips

No Cost Tips

1. Eliminate Wasted Energy
   Turn off appliances, lights, and equipment when not in use. You can also save by unplugging electronic devices and chargers when they are not in use. Don't forget to turn computers and printers off at the power strip.

2. Control Your Thermostat
   

   Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable in the winter and as high as is comfortable in the summer.  For summer it is recommended this be 78 degrees when you are home, and 85 degrees or off when you are away. For winter it is recommended this be 68 when you are home and 62 at night or when you are away.  Heat can not be turned off in the winter to prevent water pipes from freezing and rupturing.  If you have a programmable thermostat, it can be set to adjust the temperature to comfort while at home, adjust after you leave, go to bed and then back to comfort levels before you get home or get up.  Using ceiling or room fans in the summer and a humidifier in the winter will help make it more comfortable also. You can save up to 3% of your heating bill for each degree the thermostat is set above 72 degrees in the summer and below in the winter.

3. Limit Swimming Pool Operating Time
   Reduce the operating time of your pool filter and automatic cleaning sweep to four to five hours, and only during off-peak times.

4. Use Your Appliances Wisely
   To help prevent electricity outages, avoid running your appliances during peak hours -- from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. -- or anytime an electricity emergency is declared. Do laundry more efficiently by using warm or cold water settings for washing your clothes. Always use cold water for rinsing clothes. Line dry clothes whenever you can. When you need to use the clothes dryer, run full loads, use the moisture-sensing setting, and clean the lint trap after each use. Conserve energy by running your dishwasher only when it is fully loaded, and turn off the dry cycle and air-dry the dishes instead.

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Low Cost Tips

1. Use Energy Efficient Lighting
   Replace regular incandescent light bulbs that are used more than two hours per day with Energy Star® compact fluorescent light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use approximately 75 % less electricity than regular light bulbs and last up to seven years! Buy Energy Star® certified table lamps, light fixtures, or torchieres.

2. Wrap Your Water Heater
   If your water heater is older than 10 years, wrap it with an insulating blanket.

3. Replace Filters

   Dirty filters restrict airflow and can cause the system to run longer, increasing energy use. Replace furnace and/or air conditioner filters monthly for maximum benefit, particularly if you are using HEPA or other high efficiency filters.

4. Plug Your Home's Leaks
   Weather-strip, seal, and caulk leaky doors and windows, and install foam gaskets behind outlet covers.

5. Install Energy-Saver Showerheads
   This can save not only electricity, but water as well.

6. Install an Energy Star® Thermostat
   This can save up to 3% of your electricity use.

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Investment Tips

1. Use Energy Efficient Windows
   Replace old windows with new high performance, energy efficient windows.

2. Install a Whole House Fan
   An attic "whole house" fan draws cooler air into your home and forces hot air out through attic vents. Use it when the air is cool outside and in the early morning hours.

3. Increase Attic Insulation
   Insulate ceilings to R-30 standards if your attic has less than R-19.

4. Seal Your Ducts
   Leaking ductwork accounts for as much as 25 % of cooling costs in an average home. Have your ducts tested and get any leaks or restrictions repaired by a qualified contractor.

5. Buy Energy Star® Appliances
   When buying new appliances, be sure to purchase energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® models. Also, look for seasonal incentives sponsored by utility companies for energy-efficient appliances.

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